Rabbits suffering from a fungal skin disease often first show symptoms on the head, around the mouth and ears, before spreading to the limbs, back, and abdomen. The affected areas typically form ring-shaped lesions with raised edges, covered by gray or yellowish scales. As the crusts peel off, small ulcers appear, which can damage the hair follicles and lead to hair loss. In some cases, secondary infections caused by staphylococci or streptococci may result in abscesses or more severe complications. Some rabbits display circular bald patches with a pearlescent, glittering appearance, along with signs of inflammation.
For laboratory diagnosis, aseptic techniques must be strictly followed. First, the affected area is cleaned with 75% alcohol. Then, skin scrapings and dander are collected using a scalpel. These samples are placed on a glass slide, and a few drops of 10% potassium hydroxide solution are added. A coverslip is then placed over the sample and gently heated on an alcohol lamp. After microscopic examination, no sputum is observed, but fungal spores and hyphae are clearly visible, confirming a fungal infection.
This condition is caused by the invasion of Trichophyton and Microsporum fungi into the skin and its appendages, such as hair follicles and shafts. It leads to irregular or round patches of hair loss, broken hairs, and inflammatory changes on the skin. All rabbit breeds are susceptible, and once infected, it can significantly impact fur quality and overall health, leading to economic losses in rabbit farming. Additionally, humans can contract this disease, making it an important zoonotic infection.
Prevention and control measures are crucial. Rabbit housing should be well-ventilated, dry, and clean. Regular cleaning and disinfection of cages and facilities are necessary. Feeding practices should be improved, and rabbits should not be purchased from infected areas. Infected animals should be immediately isolated or culled to prevent further spread.
Treatment involves clipping the affected hair, washing the area with soap or antiseptic solutions, softening the scabs, and removing them. Topical treatments such as 7–10% iodine solution or L-ornithine ointment can be applied for seven days. Systemic treatment includes oral nystatin at 100,000 units per kilogram of body weight, once daily for 10–15 days. To prevent secondary bacterial infections, antibiotics like ciprofloxacin (found in products such as Baoshu Tenenoxin) can be added to the feed, helping the rabbits recover quickly when combined with other management strategies.
In summary:
1. The disease spreads through direct contact between healthy and infected rabbits, including licking, biting, and mating. Indirect transmission via contaminated equipment is also possible. Poor hygiene, high humidity, and unclean living conditions increase the risk of infection. Prompt isolation or culling of affected animals is essential to prevent outbreaks.
2. This condition shares similar symptoms with rabbit rickets, so differential diagnosis is necessary. Accurate identification through lab tests ensures effective treatment.
3. Due to its zoonotic nature, farm workers must take personal protective measures to avoid infection.
4. Adding a specific premix to the feed has been shown to reduce the incidence of the disease and provide good preventive effects.
Potassium Salt,Potassium Oxalate,Oxalic Acid Anhydrous,Oxalic Acid Monohydrate
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